Sizing a van around what you are moving
List the largest items with rough length, width and height, and give an estimate of total weight, because bulk and payload limit a van in different ways. Mention anything awkward, such as a wardrobe that cannot be dismantled or long timber. Describe loading at both ends, including stairs, lift access, distance from the kerb and whether anyone will help lift.
Picking a suitable van
Start with the load, then choose the van. A small van works well for boxes, tools and light collections; medium and long-wheelbase vans suit furniture, stock and trade equipment; and a Luton is the better choice for bulkier items on a house move. Subject to dates, driver details and availability, the range includes the Volkswagen Caddy, Ford Transit SWB, VW Transporter Automatic, Ford Transit MWB and Ford Transit LWB. Make, model, transmission, seats, payload and licence position are all confirmed at quote stage, so treat these vehicles as a guide to the kind of hire on offer rather than a guaranteed reservation of a particular model.
Preparing a Business Delivery Schedule
If the van is needed for commercial deliveries, draft the schedule before contacting the hire team. List each delivery address, the recipient's name and phone number, and a time window agreed with them. Note the size and quantity of items destined for each stop, since a run of small parcels differs from a few bulky orders when it comes to choosing between a small van and a Transit. Record the hire dates and any access details recipients have mentioned, such as loading-bay restrictions or gate codes. Questions worth asking include whether a crew van suits multi-stop work, how the booking handles schedule changes and which vehicle sizes are available for the period you have in mind.
Measuring Bulky Items Before You Book
Before settling on a van, measure the largest items you intend to carry and write the figures down. For furniture, note height, width and depth, and check whether legs, doors or handles can be removed, since that changes the recorded dimensions. Count the accompanying boxes and estimate their combined bulk. Pass the full list to the team rather than guessing at a vehicle yourself, and let them confirm which option matches what you have measured. Note the hire dates and the access arrangements at both ends of the journey. Useful questions include whether a dropside suits awkward shapes, how item dimensions affect the vehicle choice and whether the booking can be adjusted if your measurements change. Keeping the figures with your enquiry gives the team something concrete to work from.
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Last checks before booking
Before the hire is confirmed, go over the key points: whether the vehicle is available, the driver requirements, mileage, insurance, the delivery or collection arrangements and any extras you have asked for. Make sure payload, loading height, tail-lift needs, driver details, deposits and insurance excess are confirmed before you settle on a van size. A clear request gives the date, the length of hire, a rough route, the delivery or pickup address, the passengers or load you expect and any special requirements that might affect which vehicle is suitable.